The Council presented Sen. Unterman with the Angel Award at their 6th annual ceremony held on April 14, 2015, in Forsyth, Georgia, during National Crime Victim Rights Week.
“I have always been drawn to helping those who find themselves without a voice after a traumatic life event, and I am humbled by this recognition. I will continue to fight for their recovery, as well as the swift punishment of those who seek to profit off of innocence lost,” said Sen. Unterman.
“I can think of no one more deserving of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council’s 2015 award for exceptional service to victims than Senator Renee Unterman. For more than twenty years, she has tirelessly championed victims’ causes. Her most recent effort to get ‘safe harbor’ legislation passed epitomizes her work. Because of her efforts children in our state forced into prostitution can be viewed as victims instead of criminals.”
“Sen. Renee Unterman has worked tirelessly to pass legislation which helps protect the elderly and minors who are trafficked in the sex industry,” said Vernon Keenan, Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “She has a passion for her work and for helping those who are not able to help themselves. Sen. Unterman is a true champion for people who are part of an at-risk population.”
National Crime Victim Rights Week is an annual observance facilitated by The Office for Victims of Crime, The Office of Justice Programs and the U.S. Department of Justice. This year’s event was held from April 19 – 25, 2015. This year’s theme—Engaging Communities, Empowering Victims—is meant to emphasize the role of the community in the support and empowerment of crime victims.
Sen. Renee Unterman serves as Chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee. She represents the 45th Senate District, which includes portions of Gwinnett County. She can be reached at 404.463.1368 or by e-mail at renee.unterman@senate.ga.gov.
